#chinesemilitaryhistory

[steelandcotton]

The Kangxi Emperor in his Stone Blue Armor.

While later Qing Emperors wore more elaborate suits of armor, Kangxi choose to wear the same Stone Blue color armor that was later designated in the Imperial Regulations for Generals. Though Kangxi’s helmet and other metal fittings that choose be been were guilt in gold.

[steelandcotton]

Qing Spearmen- Note the length of their spears. They are holding them near the end, and they are about one and a half the length of the height of these Bannermen. That would make them about 8’ (2.4 m.) long.

[steelandcotton]

Though Manchu Bannermen were well known for their archery and love of the bow, they made use of matchlock muskets from the beginning of their reign. Lately, I’ve been doing a bit of research into Manchu Gunnery. This image from a French Book about the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95. The musket this Bannerman is aiming appears to be a percussion cap type. Though the details are a bit difficult to make out. The Qing did have but snap lock matchlocks and percussion cap type muskets, but by and large stuck with the 17th century style simple level serpentine lock. Note the pre-measured loads in the bandolier at his waist and the powder flask the hangs from a strap at his back. He would have also had a primer flask.

[steelandcotton]

Portrait of a Young Emperor Qianlong (?)

Source: https://www.photo.rmn.fr/archive/05-524114-2C6NU07M1M1M.html